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Probably the most famous national park in Costa Rica (and also the smallest), Manuel Antonio National Park is only one hour south from Jaco on a good highway and is an easy day trip.

Covering 682.7 hectares of land and 55,000 hectares of sea, Manuel Antonio offers you an opportunity to see many species of birds, and mammals, including sloths and squirrel monkeys, in a humid rainforest.

Its white sand beaches are pristine and beautiful so take time to relax in them. The coral reefs allow for outstanding snorkeling. The many trails are a great way to hike and explore amazing sights, such as the one around Punta Catedral.

Notes on national parks:

All parks in Costa Rica close on Mondays.

To have better chances of seeing wildlife, be at the park entrance no later than 8:00 AM. Manuel Antonio closes at 4:00 PM.

Carara National Park, located about 15 miles north of Jaco, protects the Tarcoles River basin, and is home to one of the largest populations of the endangered Scarlet Macaw.

Carara National Park is considered a transitional rain forest and contains more primary rain forest than Manuel Antonio National Park. Thanks to its dense tree growth, Carara is a haven for many bird species, and a popular bird watching destination.

You may want to combine a visit to the park with a boat ride up and down the Tarcoles River. During the ride you can safely watch a large population of American crocodiles, and the mangroves full of birds near the river's estuary.

Enjoy one of the most amazing views in Costa Rica at the Hotel Villa Caletas sunset bar. Sip a cocktail while contemplating a gorgeous sunset over a Greek-style amphitheather. Check their website for upcoming concerts.

Horseback riding

Horseback riding Jaco with Discovery Horse tours is the perfect way to discover the wonders of the abundant nature at the private 1500 acre La Quina Reserve and Farm, just 15 minutes outside Jaco.

Discovery Horse Tours horses are world renowned for the best trained, best cared for, and most loved animals in Costa Rica. Voted "No. 1 activity to do in Jaco" in Trip Advisor and the only horse riding operation in the Central Pacific area that is recommended by travel guide "The Lonely Planet".

Owned and operated by British husband and wife team Chris and Andrea Wady, Discovery Horse Tours is a business dedicated to customer satisfaction, eco tourism and horse welfare. If you care about the horses you ride, this is the place for you.